FREMONT COUNTY, ID – A hiker was injured in a bear encounter in southeast Idaho on Tuesday, according to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.

The adult male hiker was traveling alone on the South Rim of Squirrel Creek when a bear charged at him through thick timber from a short distance away. The bear bit the man as it ran past and then continued into the forest. Despite his injuries, the hiker was able to hike out on his own and seek medical attention.

Fish and Game staff have posted signs in the area warning visitors of bear activity. Officials said the bear’s behavior was likely defensive, caused by the close, surprising encounter, and no further management actions are planned at this time.

Authorities remind backcountry visitors to take precautions to avoid surprising bears, including hiking in groups, being alert for bear signs, making noise in areas with limited visibility, avoiding thick brush, and carrying bear spray.